This Pork Roll Carbonara is Something You Would Only See in New Jersey

Phil Stilton

Ah, Reddit. The place where cat videos, philosophical debates, and food fiascos coalesce into a melting pot of internet culture. And speaking of melting pots, a recent Reddit post has stirred (or should I say whisked?) the culinary world. This daring soul dared to share a recipe for Pork Roll Carbonara, swapping the classic bacon or pancetta with none other than New Jersey’s treasured pork roll.

If you ask any Italian chef, the backbone of a true carbonara includes pasta, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and either guanciale, pancetta, or bacon. Tossing in pork roll is like painting a mustache on the Mona Lisa—a cheeky act that many purists would label as heresy. But guess what? This pork roll version was wildly appreciated, with Reddit users calling it a ‘genius twist’ and a ‘culinary masterpiece.’

But why would anyone do such a thing? To answer that question, you need to understand New Jersey’s obsession with pork roll. This processed meat is more than just a breakfast staple; it’s a cultural symbol. It’s even got its own festivals and cooking competitions. In the Garden State, pork roll stands shoulder to shoulder with Bruce Springsteen and the Jersey Shore as a point of pride.


So, would you entertain your taste buds with this audacious fusion of Italian classic and Jersey icon? While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea (or plate of pasta, if you will), it’s a dish that challenges norms and pays homage to a regional favorite. Give it a try; who knows, you might just discover that pork roll is the secret ingredient your carbonara has been missing all along.

So, are you up for the challenge? Would you eat Pork Roll Carbonara?

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